Dynasty Warriors 3 (真・三國無双2, Shin Sangoku Musou 2) is the third title in the Dynasty Warriors series and acclaimed by fans of the earlier titles to be one of the most difficult due to the enemies' AI. This title introduces the Nanman tribe and also set the standards for many of its following titles.

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If they have a high ranked weapon, characters can now perform six hit combos. The four previous charge attack properties remain the same but add two more to the mix.

, , , , : Sends the opponent high into the air; continuing to press triggers a synchronized follow up. This additional combo is called a Charge Drive.

, , , , , : Triggers a unique combo; some officers can also extend it by tapping .

Enemy AI is much more aggressive and clearing crowds takes more effort. Even the most common soldier will actively run up to the player to attack.

When two players work together on a stage, they can perform an attack called Double Musou. If they are close to one another and have their Musou gauges filled, they can press together to unleash a powerful assault.

For the first time in the series, players can collect and equip various items. Specific items can affect the playable characters' stats but others can be unlocked after fulfilling certain requirements. The tradition of unlocking rare fourth weapons also began with this title.

Stat boosting remains similar to the previous title except Dynasty Warriors 3 offers different stat boosts when the game is on harder difficulties.

Mounted attacks -as in, when the horse slays an enemy- can now affect the KO count for the player. Elephant mounts have also been added. Riding a specific steed, however, demands the player to be at certain level. For example, if the character is at a low level and tries to ride Red Hare, they'll likely be thrown off its back. To counter this setback, the player can level up their characters or equip saddles.

Saving during battle can be done by choosing to quit from the pause menu. Only one game can be counted at one time and choosing to not continue it makes it invalid.

Characters are more vocal than before and will talk during in-game cutscenes.

For the first time, players are able to have personal bodyguards with them in battle. The player will start with 2 peons and when maxed out will be able to have up to 8 elite bodyguards.

Enemy and allied officers can replenish their health, and increase their attack and defense in a similar way as the player would charge their musou.